Christian Life Community
Communauté de Vie Chrétienne
Comunidad de Vida Cristiana

News

MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS FOR LENT 2019
Dear Brothers and Sisters
Each year, through Mother Church, God “gives us this joyful season when we prepare to celebrate the paschal mystery with mind and heart renewed… as we recall the great events that gave us new life in Christ”
Read the full Message

Announcing the Next Executive Secretary of CLC
With great joy, we wish to share with you that Manuel Martinez, from the CLC in Uruguay, has been chosen to be the next Executive Secretary of the Christian Life Community.
He will assume his position as an appointed member of the World ExCo and as Executive Secretary before 2019 ends.
Read the full announcement

Sharing the Jesuit Universal Apostolic Preferences
Dear CLC,
Our apostolic fellowship with the Society of Jesus continues to be a special gift in our Kairos moment in the Church and the world. It is a gift that intertwines and moves into common and diverse paths, in the service of Missio Dei.
With joy, we share with you their Universal Apostolic Preferences (1- the Spiritual Exercises and discernment, 2- Walking with the Excluded, 3- Journeying with Youth, and 4- Care of our Common Home).
May these be an inspiration for us, signifying that an ever deeper growth in one’s charism can lead to ever deeper growth in response. And may it be so for our own journey as a lay Ignatian apostolic body.
Link

Call for the New Executive Secretary
We would like to invite you to accompany the World ExCo and the national communities as we continue to search for members who are willing to take on the position of CVX-CLC Executive Secretary.
Feel free to contact your national teams and executive councils if you wish to know more about the search and application processes.
Here's the link to the Roles and Responsibilities of the position:

To National ExCos, for sharing with your members:
Dear friends,
As you know, an important event is taking place in the Church from October 3 to 28, 2018: the Synod on Youth, which theme is: Youth, Faith and Vocational Discernment.
Let us pray especially for the youth at this time, and for the Synod Fathers, asking the Holy Spirit to guide them in their reflections and decisions.
We encourage you to follow daily the work of the Synod on this link:
Website

A Wealth of Experience
The Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life has published the contributions of associations, and lay movements during the Annual Meeting of Associations, Ecclesial Movements and Youth Communities, last June 2018. During this meeting, the nearly 50 ecclesial groups convened reflected on the theme of the next Synod of Bishops: “Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment"
Alwin and Rojean Macalalad attended for the Christian Life Community.
More information here

Progressio No. 1, 2018 Glimpses for Contemplating an Apostolic Body
We are pleased to announce the last issue of Progressio (1-2018): Glimpses for Contemplating an Apostolic Body. You can download it from here, free to share.
Download

XVII World CLC Assembly 2018
The XVII World CLC Assembly was opened with the welcome message of the President of the World CLC Mauricio Lopez, followed by the reading of the messages of the Pope and the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life. The three presidents of Arupa then welcome the delegates who present their flags followed by the address of Mauricio Lopez to the community and the Opening Mass which was presided by Fr. Alejandro Tilve, sj (Provincial of the Province of Argentino-Uruguay)
Follow us on the Assembly WebsitePope Message

We are ARUPÁ
The wishes and hopes of ARUPÁ, in this time of preparation of the 2018 World Assembly.
Article published in Progressio 1-2018, (forthcoming)

VOLUNTEERS FOR THE LANGUAGE SUPPORT TEAM (LST)
HELPING WITH TRANSLATIONS ONLINE DURING THE WORLD ASSEMBLY.
As we get ready for our next World Assembly in Buenos Aires, Argentina, we’re looking for volunteers to join our team of translators, the Language Support Team. Our team will work online (from your own home), translating all documents needed during the Assembly.
Read more

Follow us
XVII World Assembly CVX - CLC
CLC, a gift for the Church and the world. "How many loaves have you?... Go and see". (Mc. 6,38)
Buenos Aires 2018

The Process of Communal Discernment on CLC HOPE School Yongin
Thus the communal discernment of the team became the communal discernment of the whole community, which inspired and encouraged each member to think about what they could do in their place.
You can download the full article here:

Reflections on ESDAC Formation in Italy
ESDAC means Exercises for Spiritual Discernment on Apostolate in Common. It consists of facilitators who use the discernment process inspired by St. Ignatius of Loyola to reach different groups of people.
You can download the full article here:

Lay People, Between Responsibilities and Formation
01 March 2018. Meeting of the World Executive Council with the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life represented by Prefect Kevin Farrell, Secretary Alexandre Awi Mello, and Undersecretary Linda Ghisoni.
Read more

Synod of Bishops for the Amazon region
We are delighted to share the news that Pope Francis has just appointed Mauricio Lopez, our beloved President of World CLC, to the Council which will prepare for the Synod on the Amazon! Please join us in our prayer and support for this important work on addressing the very urgent needs of the people and the land of the Amazon!
Read more

Progressio Supplement No. 73: The International Formation Encounter on Family
We are pleased to announce Progressio Supplement #73: The International Formation Encounter (IFE) on Family. In it you will find all the presentations and reflection of the IFE on Family, held in Madrid, Spain last July 2017.

The IFE on Family was a partnership between the CLC World Executive Council and Comillas Pontifical University of Madrid. Bearing the theme of: “See how they love one another”.
A lay Ignatian look at Family In response to the call for a new family pastoral in Amoris Laetitia. We now share with you the stories and graces of the encounter.

We hope that you find this useful and meaningful as you respond to call of Amoris Laetitia. We encourage you to share this to persons and groups who can draw inspiration from it. For feedback (comments, questions, reflections, requests) email us through progressio@cvx-clc.net. We always appreciate hearing from you!

World ExCo Meeting 2018
The World Executive Council meets in Rome on February 24-March 4, 2018. Be with us in prayer as we review how the Spirit has moved through our term and we prepare for the upcoming World Assembly in Buenos Aires!

Day 1: Insights from 2nd Conference on Jesuit Networking
“This is not a normal group.” That’s how Fr. Dani Villanueva, S.J., introduced the 2nd International Jesuit Networking Conference, speaking to around 35 Jesuits and colleagues gathered from around the world. He pointed out that the diversity of cultures and fields represented made this conference unique...
Website

Cecilia Roselli – In memoriam
Dear friends
With great sorrow we announce the departure, at the age 30, to Our Father’s Home of Cecilia Roselli, a member of the Getsemani community.
Cecilia was a member of Christian Life Community since 2007, making her commitment in 2012. During those ten years she actively participated in the life of her community and carried out with great commitment her service to the National Community. She served as an advisor to and a member the National Executive Council. At the time of her death she was the representative of CVX Uruguay on the organizing team of the next World Assembly.
Her co-members will always remember her warmth and her smile, as well as her commitment and generous dedication. With her life, Checha showed us that difficulties and failures can be lived through with strength, joy and optimism, and that with Him by our side the burden is lightened (Mt. 11, 28-30).
We remember her for her great kindness, and although we are saddened by her departure, we thank God for having been privileged to journey with her these years and for the fruits of her life that will continue to mature in us. We ask the Lord to receive her with the same smile that Cecilia showed us, and that eternal light may shine upon her.

Dialogue with Pope Francis
On April 30 2015, Pope Francis held an audience with CLC Italy-League of Missionary Students on the occasion of their National Assembly. Some 5,000 peo- ple- CLC members (from Italy, Syria & Lebanon, and parts of Europe) and friends from the Ignatian family met with the pope in the Pope Paul VI Audience Hall.
You can download the full article here:

Projects 169: World CLC Day 2018 – “Caring for our gift, offering it more generously in joy”
Dear Friends,

In Projects 169, Herminio Rico SJ, Ann Marie Brennan, and Najat Sayegh bring us into a deeper reflection of what our 50 years as CLC mean, in the light of this moment in the Church and in the world as well as our future mission. We ask that you bring this into your reflections and celebrations for World CLC Day 2018.
download

Journey
‘The journey’ is a perfect image for life in general. We are always moving; we have a past we can refer to, but we are not now where we were then. And we have a future we look forward to, but we won’t necessarily be where we are now.
Read the book of Fred Leone: Journey

Report from PanAmazon: Report #12: Contemplation to Attain Love
Once upon a time, there was a beautiful girl so overcome by her devotion to the moon, that she wished to ascend to the heavens, and be turned into a star. She decided to wander the highest peaks and mountains, until her dream could be magically realized.
You can download the full reflection here:

CVX-CLC: Voices for the Youth Synod 2018
As CLC, we can participate in the preparation for the Youth Synod by inviting our young members and young people aourn us to make their voice heard:
- The Synod of Bishops on the Youth will held in October 2018
- The Pope urges the youth to answer this questionnaire: http://bit.ly/YouthSynodSurvey before November 30, 2017
- Read Najat Sayegh's official letter through the link below!

To share in the blessings of the gospel
Fall in love, stay in love; it will decide everything.
These famous words of Pedro Arrupe beckon us to the core of our lives as Christians – a deep personal love for Jesus. I was privileged to meet so many CLC members whose lives are marked by this love.
You can download the full article here:

Report from PanAmazon: Report #11: Everything is interconnected as if we were one ...
... we are all part of this mother earth and this universe, we are connected to each other and together within this Common Home, everything we do affects the other whether it be a human being, an animal, a plant...
You can download the full reflection here:

Projects 168: “CLC celebration, consolidation, renewal”
Our celebration will be marked not by frantic activity, but with a united and deliberate relishing and reflection, which will culminate in the 2018 World Assembly in Buenos Aires. Many of you have already begun it. From here onwards until July 2018, we’ll journey closer together!
download

The Synod on the Family and the World Meeting of Families (WMOF) in Philadelphia
“Only in the light of the madness and great love of Jesus will we understand the madness and gratuitous love between man and woman.”
You can download the full article here:

Report from PanAmazon: Report #10: Sounds of Death and Resurrection
We need always to descend to the bottom to discover there a new source of energy, to renew the life spent, and refresh the dry life. The transforming force is not found at the surface in which we live but rather in the depths.
You can download the full reflection here:

Starting Young: Sharing the CLC Vocation during World Youth Day, Krakow, 2016
The young people of our community took part in World Youth Day in Krakow and in preparing the CLC Booth in the Centre for Vocation in Cracovia Stadium. Thanks to the experience of working with people from countries of almost all continents, they felt like a real part of the World Christian Life Community...
You can download the full article here:

Season of Creation 2017
Dear friends,
Mauricio Lopez and Ann Marie Brennan invite you to participate in the upcoming Season of Creation 2017. There are various initiatives available for everyone, which you will find in the attached letter. The Season of Creation is from 1 September until 4 October 2017.
For more details, you may directly contact Ann Marie at annmariebrennan@yahoo.com

Remembering Lebanon 2013
One year before our Buenos Aires Assembly!
We continue our preparations by remembering the 2013 Lebanon Assembly. How far have we gone, CLC?
view video

Ecology Program from CLC Zaragoza, in light of Laudato Si’
CLC Zaragoza in Spain has launched an introductory Ecology and Social Justice program for CLC members in light of the encyclical Laudato Si of Pope Francis. It is designed to be completed in just three meetings, but it can also be done in one day.
Website

Migration and CLC Europe
We need to rejuvenate the spirit of a decrepit, self-centred and forgetful Europe; to motivate it with youthful vigour, to awaken again sensitivity for human beings, for the brotherhood of mankind...

Report from PanAmazon: Report #9: Not to sound like empty vessels
'If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.(1 Cor 13: 3-7)
You can download the full reflection here:

The International Formation Encounter on Family
The International Formation Encounter on Family (IFE) is set to take place in Madrid, Spain from 17 to 20 July 2017.

Bearing the theme of
“See how they love one another”. A lay Ignatian look at Family.
In response to the call for a new family pastoral in Amoris Laetitia.

Participants of the encounter are CLC members from 29 national communities, from six CLC Regions (Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, and North America).
The IFE on Family is a partnership between the CLC World Executive Council and Comillas Pontifical University of Madrid. We are grateful to CLC Spain Executive Council and the national community for their generosity in welcoming us!

Caring for Creation
At the heart of the Encyclical’s proposal is an integral ecology as a new paradigm of justice, an ecology "which respects our unique place as human beings in this world and our relationship to our surroundings" (LS. #15). Because we cannot understand nature as “something separate from ourselves or as a mere setting in which we live” (LS. #139).

Mauricio Lopez leads us in the meeting plan n.7 of Supplement #72 focused on the theme of “Integral Ecology, the Central Call of the Encyclical Laudato Si”
Watch the videoCaring for Creation

Consecrated Life is for Lay People too
So the mission of CLC, is first of all, to live the light of the gospel in those “places and circumstances” where only I, if I am a lay person, can make my contribution.

Report from PanAmazon: Report #8: Evangelize in daily life
"I encourage all those who are committed to helping men, women and children enslaved, exploited, abused as tools of labor or pleasure and often tortured and mutilated."
"Human trafficking is a crime against humanity." Pope Francis
You can download the full reflection here:

Caring for Creation
“The world is charged with the grandeur of God.
It will flame out, like shining from shook foil…”

Luke Rodrigues SJ introduces us to the first meeting plan in Supplement #72 focused on the theme of “The Goodness of Creation”

CLC Syria: In Faith and Plight
When God asked Cain: Where is your brother? God wanted to awaken in Cain his brother’s image, but then Cain answered: am I my brother’s keeper? At that moment, he killed his brother again by his apathy and deafness and became the first isolated, strange, homeless refugee human being in the world.

Caring for Creation
Mauricio Lopez and Luke Rodrigues SJ reiterate this important moment for caring for the Earth, our common home.
You can download here: Progressio Supplement #72
Watch the videoCaring for Creation

In thanksgiving and remembrance
Dear Friends,

It is with deep sympathies that we bring news of the passing of Hildegard Ehrtmann. She was 86 years old.
Hildegard served the World Community as Secretary from 1973 to 1976, and as Vice President from 1976 to 1979. In Germany and beyond, she was a key person for promoting the transition from Marian Congregation to Christian Life Community. She encouraged for renewal, and re-discovering the roots of our community, especially the Ignatian Spirituality and the Spiritual Exercises.
We are sad with her passing, but we are grateful for Hildegard’s life and her unique engagement for CLC. Let us spend a moment of silence in thanksgiving for the gifts that she brought to our community – and pray that we may continue to flourish these gifts as we move forward into the future.

Environment as Relationship- How are we moving?
We would like to share with you Fr. Pedro Walpole SJ's presentation: Environment as Relationship- How are we moving. It was originally shared with CLC Melbourne and presented to the CLC Ecology Commission online.
You can watch the presentation through this link:

Being EA: Graces of a 20-Year Journey in Facilitating Growth
If I could use one word to speak about how I have seen my role as EA, it would be “facilitator”. I see facilitation as bringing out the best in persons, in organizations and in situations.

Jesuit Survey on Collaboration and Networking
We would like to invite you to participate in the Survey on Collaboration and Networking: survey.jesuitnetworking.org

Through the survey, the Society of Jesus would like to "deepen on the insights from the General Congregation 36, (and) ... understand attitudes and behaviors regarding Jesuit Networking and Collaboration. The idea is to reach out to Jesuits, collaborators and the wider community of Jesuit friends and alumni, for a better understanding of the meaning and possibilities of collaboration globally"

It's also important to have members of the CLC to give input, insight, even feedback on collaboration. Let's help our friends explore the meaning and possibilities partnership.
Learn more about the survey here:

Report from PanAmazon: Report #7: Space for a community to come together
A new year begins and with it new blank pages on which more stories of this small pilgrimage in this corner of our beloved Amazon will be penned.
You can download the full reflection here:

4 th Letter from the President to the World Christian Life Community 2017
Convocation to the Buenos Aires 2018 World Assembly, July 22 to 31, 2018.
The theme: "CLC, a gift for the Church and the world"
The passage of Scripture: “How many loaves have you?... Go and see” (Mk 6:38)
The Grace we ask the Lord in our Assembly: “We desire greater depth and integration in the living out of our CLC charism in the world today”
Download

If you only knew the Gift of God
...we were all invited, individually and collectively, to “travel with Jesus in the trail of the Samaritan woman,” as at the wells of the Gospel.

CLC Luxembourg celebrates World CLC Day 2017
A small contribution relating to World CLC Day 2017 that CLC Luxembourg celebrated on Sunday, March 26
Download

XII Portuguese National Assembly
We in Portugal are about to enter an exciting weekend: we will have our XII Portuguese National Assembly, to be held at Fátima, where Pope Francis will soon come and visit us! Well, “us” Portuguese in general, not CLC itself, unfortunately... ;)

It will be a special moment for Portuguese CLC, as around 200 Delegates and Staff will be together to choose (amongst other things) a new National Team and discern about our mission for the next 3 years: “To Care For and Send” is our motto, as we will be looking at our community and to those that address us (To Care For) in order to better collaborate with the Lord in building His Kingdom in whatever mission inspired by Him (Send)!

In such a special occasion, we ask all of you to pray for us and to join us at www.an2017.org - a blog specially prepared to let all CLC’ers (Portuguese and non-Portuguese) know what is going on in Fátima and, with the grace of the Lord, feel inspired by Him! At the best of our efforts we will include posts in portuguese and english... :)

See you all at www.an2017.org!

With all our best,
The Portuguese National Team
Teresa, Teresa, Raquel, Nuno, João, P. Sérgio sj

Report from PanAmazon: Report #6: Celebrate
"For me, a spiritual man or woman is one who lives in depth, who assumes options worthy of a human life. Be consistent, be open to the needs of others. Celebrate life."
You can download the full reflection here:

Challenges for the CLC Mission
CLC in England and Wales shares with us their reprint of Franklin Ibañez's presentation from the Lebanon Assembly, Challenges of the CLC Mission
Download

PROJECTS 167: An (extra)ordinary meeting of the W-ExCo
We are pleased to share with you our Annual Meeting last February through Projects 167: An (extra)ordinary meeting of the W-ExCo by Denis Dobbelstein, in behalf of the World ExCo. We hope this excites you about things to come...
Projects 167

Report from PanAmazon: Report #5: Recognize
"To care is more than an act; it is an attitude. Therefore, it embraces more than a moment of attention. Represents an attitude of occupation, interest, responsibility and the affective involvement with the other." Leonardo Boff
You can download the full reflection here:

Fr Arturo Sosa SJ Appointed as World CLC Ecclesiastical Assistant
Fr Arturo Sosa SJ, Superior General of the Society of Jesus, has been appointed by the Holy See, through the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life as World Christian Life Community Ecclesiastical Assistant. He assumes this role after Fr. Adolfo Nicolas SJ. In this capacity, becomes a member of the World Executive Council of the Christian Life Community-- Welcome Fr Arturo Sosa!
Read the letter of appointment

World ExCo Meeting 2017
The World Executive Council meets in Rome on February 18-26, 2017. Be with us in prayer as we prepare for the upcoming 50th year of CLC and the 2018 World Assembly in Buenos Aires!

Farewell to Fr. Adolfo Nicolas SJ
The CLC World ExCo (Chris Hogan, Alwin Macalalad, Rojean Macalalad, Herminio Rico SJ) bids farewell to former Jesuit General and World CLC Ecclesiastical Assistant, Fr Adolfo Nicolas SJ. He has now returned to the Philippines for the next phase of his mission. Thank you Fr. Nicolas!

Report from PanAmazon: Report #4: Learning
The problem of my brotherhood, if I really am the brother of all men, is not how I feel in my heart, but the real problem is that others can feel themselves as my brothers when they come across of me. This is where fraternity comes into play: what does it matter to the other that I in my "little heart" feel like brother, if he sees me as a hedgehog?
You can download the full reflection here:

Report from PanAmazon: Report #3: Quiet time
"Look around you, give thanks, feel indignant of the situations of injustice, exclusion and poverty, but above all find out how you can engage and contribute in a small way to transform those situations that do nothing but widen the gap between rich and poor, situations that increase the destruction of our common home."
You can download the full reflection here:

Report from PanAmazon: Report #2: Breaking Up the Ground Within Me
"I must descend to the bottom of my heart and, of course, this scares me, since it is not easy to face my fears, desires, emptiness, questions..."

Report from PanAmazon
Lorena Perez (CVX Ecuador), or Lore, currently works as the volunteer for the Amazon Project. She shares with us her monthly reflections on her life and work as a way to unite with the world community's mission in the ecology frontier.

"Each face reflects a light and shadow, each carries a dream. They all have a unique way of looking after this earth and being at one with nature. They know intuitively if a cloud means rain, or if it will soon pass over and be tossed away by the wind, like the leaves that flutter in the trees."

PROJECTS: World CLC Day 2017— Remembering
We are pleased to bring you PROJECTS: World CLC Day 2017— Remembering. Kindly ensure that all individual communities and members are able to receive and find time to read this document.
Projects 166

Farewell, Thanks, and Welcome
Friday December 2, World Secretariat, Rome- In a quiet celebration of the Eucharist, marked by a communal sharing in the light of the Gospel, Luke Rodrigues SJ officially handed over the role of Vice-Ecclesiastical Assistant of the World CLC to Herminio Rico SJ. It was followed by a shared meal, and a symbolic turnover of the original copy of ecclesial approval of the General Principles of 1990. Farewell and thanks, Luke! Welcome, Herminio!
download

Peter-Hans Kolvenbach SJ

Fr. Kolvenbach passes away
Fr. Peter-Hans Kolvenbach SJ, 29th Superior General of the Society of Jesus, passed away on November 26, 2016. Fr. Kolvenbach was the World CLC Ecclesiastical Assistant (EA) from 1984 to 2008. Throughout his 24 years as our EA, he continuously reminded us of our deep heritage within the Church and the Ignatian tradition. He reminded the Society of Jesus and CLC that working with each other enriches our mission. He believed that our being one world body was a manifestation of our communion with the Church. In this, we are united with him in prayer, and in gratitude for the life he has gifted us with.

The World CLC Executive Secretary meets CLC Switzerland
On Sunday October 9th, the CLC Switzerland met with the Executive Secretary of the World CLC, Alwin Macalalad. Here is the report of the meeting:

If you have time and capacity, you may wish to post the Spanish, English and local translations for their prayer chain here too. Thank you!

Pope Francis’ Visit to the Congregation
This morning Pope Francis came to the Jesuit Curia and met with Father General Arturo Sosa and the delegates of the General Congregation 36. Three things that we can also reflect on as a lay community:
1. Seeking consolation,
2. Living in compassion,
3. Discerning and thinking with the Church.
Click the link for the article and his speech
Read more

Jesuit General Congregation 36: rowing into the deep
On Sunday October 2, the Jesuit General Congregation 36 has started with the celebration of the opening Mass in the Church of the Gesù in Rome.The 215 members have come from all over the world. The Jesuit Conferences of different parts of the world have been involved in the preparation of the GC since the announcement made by Fr. General in December 2014.

Let us accompany the General Congregation with our prayers and intentions
Website

Season of Creation
Dear Friends in CLC,
September 1 was proclaimed as the World Day of Prayer for Creation by the Orthodox Church in 1989, and many other Christian churches have joined since then, with Pope Francis most recently in 2015. It was then extended to be a month-long Season of Creation, ending on October 4 (Feast of St. Francis).
You are encouraged to participate by organizing prayer services (you can use our Progressio Supplement 72! http://www.cvx-clc.net/l-en/progressio.php ) and activities for engaging the ecological crisis.
websiteinvitation

Fr. Jim Borbely SJ, CLC-USA EA
Fr. Jim Borbely S.J. Ecclesial Assistant for CLC USA died on August 1st after a short illness. Please keep him and his family and friends in your prayers.

Father Jim’s experience with CLC included facilitating the discernment process at the World Assembly in Guadalajara Mexico in 1990 when Christian Life Community adopted the revised General Principles and General Norms. For years afterwards, he served as a consultant and resource person to CLC-USA as we sought ways – in our diversity – to grow into “one body” and to more effectively organize our national community for mission. In 2012 he assumed the position of CLC-USA National Ecclesial Assistant. He served in this capacity until his death.

We are grateful for Fr. Jim's gifts to our community, his deep insight into Ignatian group life and communal discernment and his commitment to CLC as a lay Ignatian body.
link

CLC Korea joins the 66th UN DPI/ NGO Conference
Dear Friends,
On behalf of our World CLC, CLC Korea joined the 66th UN DPI/ NGO Conference held in the Republic of Korea last May 30-June 1. They have valuable lessons to share for themselves, and our world community. You can download and read their report through the link below .
(report in English)

MIDDLE EAST: SEARCHING FOR THE WORD
At the request of the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, a group of Jesuits involved in the Middle East wrote the following text. It is primarily a call to the conscience of everybody in the light of what many Christians are living today in the Middle East.
May this text lead to exchanges and encourage all those who are concerned for the future of the peoples living in this region, to take concrete initiatives.
read more

In thanksgiving and remembrance
Dear Friends,

It is with deep sympathies that we bring news of the passing of Fred Leone.

Fred and his wife Betty were instrumental CLC leaders in both the USA level, and the world community level, dedicating much effort during the transition period and in working towards CLC's NGO recognition in the United Nations. As National President of Sodalities in the USA in 1967, the national community's shift from Sodalities to the World Federation of CLCs became a reality during Fred's term of office. He served in the World ExCo as Vice President from 1970-76 and 1979-82. His 93 years of life was marked by a generous support for the community, and an emphasis on works for justice.

Let us spend a moment of silence in thanksgiving for his life, and the life he has brought to our world community-- gifts that we shall continue to hold as we move forward into the future with hope.
to the CLC USA websiteDowload Fred's book Journey

President’s Letter No. 3 to the CLC World Community. 2016
"As members of CLC we are walkers, on a road that surpasses our limitations and our own strengths. Our journey is to follow Christ in the midst of our everyday reality, attentive to the very urgent cries of the most marginalized."
download

PROJECTS 164: World ExCo Meeting 2016
Dear Friends,
It is our joy to share with you our process and experiences during the last Annual World ExCo Meeting in Rome. Kindly ensure that all individual communities and members are able to receive and find time to read this document.
Projects 164

Progressio Supplement #72: Caring for Creation
We are pleased to announce the release of Progressio Supplement #72: Caring for Creation. Developed by the CLC Ecology Commission, it stands as our community's contribution to the ongoing action in the Ecology Frontier, one of the priorities of the Lebanon World Assembly.

In it you will find reflections, stories and invitations for apostolic action by CLC members across the world, including the Amazon project. It also includes a set of 12 community meeting plans for use by groups, focusing on growing in communion with creation, as well as deepening mission and response!

We hope that you find this useful as you engage further the Ecology frontier. We encourage you to share this to persons and groups who can draw benefit from it. For feedback (comments, questions, reflections, requests) email us through progressio@cvx-clc.net. We always appreciate hearing from you!
DownloadEmail for further information

Projects 163: World CLC Day 2016
We are pleased to bring you Projects Projects 163: World CLC Day 2016. Kindly ensure that all individual communities and members are able to receive and find time to read this document.
Projects 163

Next Vice Ecclesiastical Assistant for the World CLC
It is with great pleasure and thanksgiving that we announce the appointment of Fr. Herminio Rico, SJ as the new Vice Ecclesiastical Assistant for the World Christian Life Community.

Fr. Rico had been long-time EA of CVX Portugal, and possesses a depth of experience in accompanying and working with the laity. We welcome him as he takes on the role in the last quarter of 2016.

We are spending a final year with Fr. Luke Rodrigues, SJ as Vice EA, and we are grateful for this as well. Along with this, let us accompany the Society of Jesus in prayer and support, as they prepare for the upcoming 36th General Congregation.

A platform for linking local CLC action on the Ecology Frontier
On Local Action
Our national communities have been initiating local efforts to respond to Laudato Si. Much of the efforts have been in the form of prayer and reflection spaces; in others, National assemblies have focused on the theme of Ecology, and have produced some materials and action steps for national action. Local action continues to be relevant because these give the necessary contextual and cultural characteristics for effective action.

Our Local Efforts Linked Together
Currently, through the efforts of the CLC Ecology Commission, we have linked with the Global Catholic Climate Movement (GCCM)- a network of Catholic communities, organizations and partners who would like to unite various local and global efforts under a common platform. Common actions that we encourage CLC participation through GCCM are:

•Signing a petition for leaders to keep the temperature rise below 1.5C
•COP21 Paris Climate Summit Prayer (which can be done individually, or by communities)
•Global Climate March (Nov 29)

This is currently our platform for united action. We strongly encourage you to link your CLC activities in the Ecology Frontier (whether it be vigils, advocacy letters and other apostolic action) with this in mind, and to register as CLC groups in their website: http://catholicclimatemovement.global/take-action/ . By doing this, we connect beyond our world CLC community and move closer to actual global common action.

As local communities, we are encouraged to continue our locally discerned callings and responses to our Ecology Frontier. But know that we are part of a larger-spanning endeavor to care for our common home, through GCCM, and the larger human community.

Please do not hesitate to share your actions and invitations via our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CVX-CLC-6562037665/ . And check our site for important World CLC updates: http://cvx-clc.net/

Let us continue to pray together for each other and our world.

Survey on the Frontiers
Last May 2015, in the president’s letter to the national communities, Mauricio Lopez requested all national communities to “put all your energies” into responding to a survey regarding their endeavors in the four frontiers so that “we end up with a clear picture of who we are and what we are doing at the frontiers.”
This is one of the foundations of how we can connect our apostolic efforts and learn from each others’ challenges. Let’s do this and submit by November 30, 2015.
PresidentLetterSurveyEmail for further information

At the Frontiers with Asylum Seekers
European CLC, CVX-LMS Italy and CLC Migration Network propose a permanent experiential camp in Sicily, alongside asylum seekers hosted in the reception centers of the "Saint John the Baptist" Foundation of Ragusa.

PROJECT
We intend to be present where the migrants come in and search the first aid in Italy. According to G.P. 8 and "aware of the pressing need to work for justice through a preferential option for the poor, and a simple lifestyle that manifests our freedom and our solidarity with them," with this project CLC / LMS seeks a dual purpose:
 be neighbour to each other in difficulty,
 make those who work for justice do not feel alone.

Laudato Sii - What struck you?
We would like to get a glimpse of how Pope Francis' encyclical is moving the collective hearts of CLC members across the world through you. Be part of the sharing! Simply respond to the following two (2) points:
> Quote it: What line or short paragraph struck you in your reading of Laudato Sii?
> Share: Briefly explain or share how it struck you and why (feelings and thoughts).
Post it in the CVX CLC Facebook Page or send it to progressio@cvx-clc.net along with your name and national community! A select number of sharings will be published in the next issue of Progressio.

Laudato si'
"Now, faced as we are with global environmental deterioration, I wish to address every person living on this planet. In my Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, I wrote to all the members of the Church with the aim of encouraging ongoing missionary renewal. In this Encyclical, I would like to enter into dialogue with all people about our common home."
read the full text!

Because we will not be silent accomplices..
From the European Christian Life Community Migration Network: We would like to express our profound disagreement, frustration and sadness at the measures taken by European political leaders.
Manifesto (for reading and distribution)

The beatification of Archbishop Oscar Arnulfo Romero
"Dear Friends from the CLC Worldwide community:
We want to share with you something that fills us with great joy not only as a national community CLC El Salvador. On Saturday May 23 will be the beatification of Archbishop Oscar Arnulfo Romero, Archbishop of San Salvador, who was murdered on March 24, 1980.."
[Read more]Email for further information

PROJECTS: World ExCo Meeting 2015
We are pleased to bring you Projects 161: World ExCo Meeting 2015 . Kindly ensure that your community members get access to the document.
Projects 162

Let us raise our voice for Climate Justice!
There are many ways to take action. The Christian Life Community is part of the Global Catholic Climate Movement, adding its voice in the Care4Creation campaign. See how you and your communities can participate:
http://catholicclimatemovement.global/care4creationmonth/

World ExCo meeting 2015
The World Executive Council will have its annual meeting in Rome from February 15-22.
Join us with your prayers.
visit the CLC page on Facebook!

Challenges for the european migration network
"Gathered from 14 to 16 November 2014 in Luxemburg, 28 CLCers from 8 european countries,
reflected on "Meeting and Welcoming the Roma” and on the future of the european migration network.

By this powerpoint, Denis Dobbelstein, member of the World Exco, described and challenged the network
as a concrete expression of CLC, an apostolic body. It helped us to reflect on our personal involvment and
on our desires towards an active network, which will be led by CLC-Spain."
for more details, please contact : Migraciones CVX-Europa migrationeuropeclc@gmail.com
powerpoint presentationEmail for further information

Let's keep the Asia-Pacific CLC in our prayers!
Let's be with the Taiwan Host Team and the rest of the Asia-Pacific Region as they hold the Regional Assembly from January 29-February 1. The assembly will focus on youth and formation for mission in the AP Region today.

PROJECTS: World CLC Day 2015 – Family
We are pleased to bring you Projects 161 with the theme for our 2015 World CLC Day: Family. Kindly ensure that your community members get access to the document. We invite you to join the the rest of the World Community, in the preparation for the 2015 Synod.
Projects 161

Prayer Vigil for this climate crisis
On Sunday December 7th , people around the world are invited to pray for the decisions of the International Panel for Climate Change that will be held in Lima-Peru this December
Light For Lima

Projects 160: Wisdom Language
the World ExCo is pleased to introduce our progress on Wisdom Language. We invite you also to join us in the process to develop these ideas in your national community and in your local groups.
in ANNEX: Guidelines for a CLC local group meeting on Wisdom Language
Wisdom Language (Projects 160)Email for further information

The Amazon Project has started
Since the end of May 2014 three members of CLC Latin America arrived in the heart of the Amazon forest.
A new way to live the CLC as an apostolic body.

Letter for candidates to the European Parliament
CLC in Europe has drafted a letter to the prospective candidates for election to the European Parliament which will take place in May 2014 in all the countries that belong to the European Union. This letter sets out the concerns of CLC as a World/European Community with regard to issues that are of key importance to all the people living in Europe at this time (poverty, environment, migration, solidarity and diversity).
Read the letter

The Death of Fr. FRANS VAN DER LUGT sj (1938-2014)
“Blessed are the peacemakers…” Father Frans was abducted by masked gunmen from the jesuit residence at Homs, in Syria, where he used to live, and was executed by gun shots. Despite the dangers, he had voluntarily decided to remain in the city of Homs in solidarity with the people who could not leave the city.

CLC joins Jesuit Networking
Now CLC is part of the core Group of Jesuit Networking, participating in the strategy and contributing with resources to the network
see the news

World ExCo meeting 2014
From February 15th to 23th in Rome the new world ExCo will have its first meeting.
Join us with your prayers

Appointment of New Executive Secretary
After a long process of deliberation and discernment, The ExCo has selected a new Executive Secretary for World CLC. The couple selected for this post are Alwin and Rojean Macalalad, from the Philippines.
We also express our heartfelt thanks to the current Executive Secretary, Franklin Ibáñez and Sofía Montañez who will continue in office till the new couple arrives and officially takes over.
Read more

CLC's relief efforts for the Typhoon victims in Philippines
CLC Philippines is officially supporting the rehabilitation efforts in Daanbantayan—a small fishing village north of Cebu that was severely affected by Typhoon Haiyan but which has not received as much attention.
For donations please get in touch with CLC Philippines through the email address, clcp@admu.edu.ph
This effort seeks to enable the village to recover fishing boats for livelihood, roofing for public schools and the establishment of a community center.
Email for further information

World ExCo letter on Syria
September 2013
Our world CLC community is deeply concerned about the urgent situation in Syria.
Read Letter

Book: Sociopolitical Participation of Christian Laity
Reflections and experiences from Ignatian Spirituality in CLC Latin America
Read the Book here

Medals of Syria
Medals made in Syria for the celebration of the 450th anniversary.
These medals not only have a symbolic value but also a moral value as they represent the pain and suffering of the Syrian people who have been subjected to hate, terror and death.
Price: €8 / 10USD + shipping costs
Full StoryEmail for further information

CLC World Assembly 2013 - Day 8
“To touch the new frontiers that challenge and beckon us today”
Tuesday August 6th – Feast of the Transfiguration
Theme of the day: Touching new frontiers and enthusiastically renew our response to God’s call
Report Day 8

CLC World Assembly 2013 - Day 7
“To touch the new frontiers that challenge and beckon us today”
Monday 5th August
Theme of the day: “Touching new frontiers”
Report Day 7

CLC World Assembly 2013 - Day 6
“To touch the new frontiers that challenge and beckon us today”
Sunday 4th August
Theme of the day: Touching New Frontiers
Report Day 6

CLC World Assembly 2013 - Day 2
“A grateful remembrance of our roots and how we have been guided over the centuries”.
Wednesday 31st July, St Ignatius Day
Theme of the day: Remembering our roots and St Ignatius Day
Report Day 2

CLC World Assembly 2013 - Day 1
“A grateful remembrance of our roots and how we have been guided over the centuries.”
Tuesday 30th July
Theme of the day: Building the Body of the Assembly
Report Day 1

Lebanon 2013
From our Roots to the Frontiers
"This is my son, The Beloved. Listen to what He says" (Mk 9:7)
Preparatory process towards our World Assembly in Lebanon 2013

In April 2013 Pilgrimage in Europe
In 1556 Jean Leunis’ made a pilgrimage, from Liege (Belgium) to Rome (Italy), to meet Saint Ignatius and join the Society of Jesus. Six years later in Rome Leunis founded “Prima Primaria”, which was the origin of Sodality of our Lady and CLC. 450 years later our pilgrimage will be done to emulate Leunis’ journey to the foundation of what we may call, the lay companions.
More InformationEmail for further information

CLC Rome accommodation project
SEEKING FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY OF WORLD CLC AND OUR APOSTOLIC WORKS
The aim of this project is one of creating long term institutional stability in the world CLC community in order to act more efficiently as an apostolic body.
25/08/2012 Our project has finished with full success. Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam
This apartment will be named “Josée Gsell” (1925-1999)
presentation of the project

GROUP GUIDES
Their Role and Formation
Some publications of the World Secretariat which talk about the role of the guide

Meeting between the General Council of Jesuits and CLC
On Tuesday, 27 March 2012, Fr. General and his Council met with some members of the Executive Council (ExCo) of CLC. The purpose of this meeting was to explore how these two Ignatian bodies in the Church could continue their close collaboration. There was exchange of gratitude and appreciation for the constant support to one another. Then the members of the meeting looked into the various dimensions through which CLC, as a Lay Apostolic Body, could carry the Ignatian charism into all the areas such as their daily life, apostolic involvement, and responsibility for institutional works. Final discussion was on the oncoming celebration of the 450 years Jubilee of Ignatian lay communities in 2013.